Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta Recipe

Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining smoky, savory sausage with a rich and creamy sauce. This dish is an easy weeknight dinner that’s sure to impress, featuring tender penne pasta enveloped in a luscious sauce made with heavy cream, chicken broth, and a generous amount of mozzarella cheese. The smoky sausage adds depth of flavor, while the seasonings bring everything together for a hearty, satisfying meal. With a touch of Italian seasoning, a hint of paprika, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, this dish strikes the perfect balance of savory and creamy. Whether you’re feeding a family or craving a comforting dinner for yourself, this pasta recipe is an ideal choice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich & Creamy Sauce: The combination of heavy cream and mozzarella creates a velvety sauce that coats the pasta perfectly, making each bite indulgent and satisfying.
2. Quick & Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, this pasta comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
3. Flavorful Sausage: The smoky sausage adds a depth of flavor to the dish, making it more exciting than your typical pasta recipe.
4. Comforting & Hearty: The pasta and creamy sauce create a hearty meal that’s both filling and comforting, perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
5. Customizable: You can add veggies or swap out ingredients to suit your preferences, making this recipe versatile for different tastes.

Ingredients

• Smoked sausage, sliced
• Penne pasta
• Olive oil
• Small onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Heavy cream
• Chicken broth
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Italian seasoning
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Variations

• Add Vegetables: To make the dish even more nutritious, add some spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the pasta for extra flavor and texture.
• Spicy Kick: For a spicy version, add red pepper flakes or use a spicy sausage variety to give the dish a bit more heat.
• Different Cheese: Swap out the mozzarella for Parmesan, gouda, or cheddar for a different cheesy flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
• Add Bacon: For an extra layer of flavor, crisp up some bacon and sprinkle it on top of the dish just before serving.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1:

Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3:

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1 minute, until fragrant.

Step 4:

Add the sliced smoked sausage to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, until browned and heated through.

Step 5:

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 6:

Add the shredded mozzarella cheese, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 7:

Toss the cooked penne pasta into the sauce, making sure the pasta is evenly coated. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.

Step 8:

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Full-Fat Cream: For the creamiest sauce, be sure to use full-fat heavy cream. This will help create a rich, velvety texture.
• Sausage Variations: If you prefer a leaner option, you can use turkey sausage instead of smoked sausage, though the flavor may be slightly different.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta al dente so it holds up well in the sauce and doesn’t become mushy.
• Simmer for Flavor: Let the sauce simmer for a few extra minutes to help the flavors meld together before adding the cheese.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce before tossing in the pasta and adjust the seasoning as needed, especially the salt and pepper.

How to Serve

This creamy smoked sausage pasta is perfect on its own, but you can serve it alongside a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for added freshness. It also pairs wonderfully with a crusty loaf of bread, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little extra cream to rehydrate the sauce.

Reheating

To reheat, place the leftover pasta in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or cream. Heat it over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can use any type of sausage, such as Italian sausage or kielbasa, but the flavor will vary depending on the choice.

2. Can I make this recipe with a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you like, such as rotini, fusilli, or farfalle.

3. How can I make this dish lighter?

To make the dish lighter, substitute the heavy cream for a lower-fat version or use half-and-half instead. You can also reduce the amount of cheese.

4. Can I use a non-dairy cream alternative?

Yes, you can use a non-dairy cream alternative such as coconut cream or almond milk to make this recipe dairy-free.

5. Can I add more veggies to this dish?

Yes, adding vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers is a great way to increase the nutrition of the dish.

6. How do I prevent the sauce from separating?

Make sure to simmer the sauce gently over medium heat and stir often. If the sauce thickens too much, add a little more chicken broth to smooth it out.

7. Can I make this pasta in advance?

You can make the pasta ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the pasta and sauce separately and then combine them when you’re ready to serve.

8. What can I use to garnish the pasta besides parsley?

In addition to parsley, you could garnish with grated Parmesan cheese or crushed red pepper flakes for added flavor.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe to serve more people. Just make sure your skillet is large enough, or cook in batches.

10. Can I use pre-cooked sausage?

If you’re using pre-cooked sausage, simply heat it through with the onions and garlic before adding the cream and broth.

Conclusion

Creamy Smoked Sausage Pasta is a quick and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich, creamy sauce and smoky sausage, it’s a comforting meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s customizable to suit your tastes, whether you want to add veggies, spice it up, or experiment with different cheeses. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta recipe will become a go-to favorite that’s sure to impress!

Print